Tubular member coupling device

ABSTRACT

A device for coupling tubular members including a sheet member having a first end and a second end where the first end and the second end are operatively arranged to overlap one another to form a substantially cylindrically shaped coupling, an abutment member mounted to the sheet member proximate the second end thereof, a male threaded member, a female member pivotably mounted proximate the first end of the sheet member and arranged for pivoting rotation about a pivot point, where the female member is arranged to threadably engage the threaded male member, and the male member is operatively arranged to abut the abutment member, wherein the male threaded member is operatively arranged to rotate in a first direction to abut the abutment member and expand the substantially cylindrically shaped coupling.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 10/271,035 filed Oct. 15, 2002 which isincorporated by reference herein. U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/271,035 is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/981,578, filed Oct. 16, 2001, which is incorporated by referenceherein.

FIELD OF INVENTION

[0002] The invention relates generally to coupling devices and, morespecifically, to a device for coupling tubular members including a sheetmember having a first end and a second end where the first end and thesecond end are operatively arranged to overlap one another to form asubstantially cylindrically shaped coupling.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Essentially, a typical joint for metal ducting (coupling a pairof aligned tubular members) is formed using two pipes with opposing endsof each pipe laid end-to-end, pushed together and then secured by theuse of screws. By the nature of the product, particularly large metalducting at high elevation, usually installed in ceilings, it has beenvery labor intensive and time consuming to join tubular members (whereone person has to move a ladder back and forth from one side of thetubular member to the other, or two people using two ladders have todrive screws simultaneously into pipe). Thus, labor costs have asignificant impact on this traditional manner of joining pipe. Inaddition to labor costs, often times this procedure causes the pipe tobend and does not provide a clean seal. There is the additional concernof alignment of large diameter pipe. As the pipe diameters increase, therange of tolerances also increases, which can result in “out of round”and “gap” conditions.

[0004] Expansion or contraction devices to hold the tubular memberstogether are known in the art. One acknowledged problem is thedifficulty of being able to force the coupling member into the tubularmember to be joined, particularly with larger sized tubular members.Another problem encountered is that of holding coupling devices in placebetween tubular members (pipes, ducts, etc.) to be joined prior to andduring expansion of the coupling.

[0005] One solution to this problem is taught in U.S. Pat. No.4,927,189, which discloses an expanding coupling device that requiresusing two threaded members to effect expansion. This device consists ofa cylindrical member where the ends of the sheet forming the tubeoverlap. In the preferred embodiment, the expansion of the device iseffected by two threaded members, each affixed to the cylinder by strapsthat circumferentially encompass the cylinder. In other embodiments, theexpanding device relies on a screw and socket assembly. This means thatto expand the coupling device, the expansion device first must bepivoted into place and then a socket wrench must be employed to effectexpansion. Conversely, to release the expanding device, the expansiondevice must first be loosened using a socket wrench and then pivoted up.This device requires the use of multiple straps that circumferentiallyencompass the cylinder and an expansion device that must be pivoted intoplace.

[0006] Various devices have been designed to accommodate the coupling ofa pair of aligned tubular members. The invention disclosed in U.S. Pat.No. 5,769,459 (Graff et al.) relies on rubber coated, helical sleevesthat are inserted inside of a pipe to seal a leak. The expandablesleeves are expanded by means of an inflatable air cushion or amechanical mounting device. When the expanded sleeves come to restagainst the inner pipe walls, sealing rings are installed. The sleevesare held in place by a pinion meshing with a row of teeth and aresilient locking bolt.

[0007] European Patent Application No. 0069098 (Andersson) teaches acylindrical coupler with overlapping ends for extension and expansion ofthe coupling device. This invention teaches the use of triangular shapedlugs into which a screw is inserted. This device uses a sheet of rubber,or other resilient material, of such a length that before the couplingdevice is extended, the cloth resides on the surface of the device infolds that become unfolded as the device is expanded. This device isheld in an unexpanded state by a steel band that extendscircumferentially around the device. A weak point is built into thesteel band so that when the device is expanded, the weak point breaksallowing for further expansion of the coupling device.

[0008] The internal expansion device disclosed by German Patent No. 2841 572 (Schlimbach) includes two beads (or protuberances) on theoutside, circumferential edges of the cylindrical device that are madeto fit into mating recesses in the internal surface of the pipes thatare being coupled. In this device, the edges of the cylinder do notoverlap, but instead they seem to abut. Attached to the inside of thecylinder is an extra piece of material that is used to cover the openingmade when the cylinder edges are moved away from each other as thecylinder is expanded to provide a coupling.

[0009] Disadvantages of the above-described devices include excessiveinternal diameter restrictions; difficulty in handling and manipulating;the requirement of special skills and/or tools to connect anddisconnect; strict inside pipe diameter tolerances in order to form asealed union; the lack of gasket sealing integrity under fieldconditions; failure under high internal pressures; and, a lack offlexibility.

[0010] Hence, there has existed a longfelt need for an improved couplingdevice for tubular members such as ducts and pipes.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The present invention generally comprises a device for couplingtubular members including a sheet member having a first end and a secondend where the first end and the second end are operatively arranged tooverlap one another to form a substantially cylindrically shapedcoupling, an abutment member mounted to the sheet member proximate thesecond end thereof, a male threaded member, a female member pivotablymounted proximate the first end of the sheet member and arranged forpivoting rotation about a pivot point, where the female member isarranged to threadably engage the threaded male member, and the malemember is operatively arranged to abut the abutment member, wherein themale threaded member is operatively arranged to rotate in a firstdirection to abut the abutment member and expand the substantiallycylindrically shaped coupling, and at least one clip fixedly attached toan outer surface of the substantially cylindrically shaped coupling, inwhich the clip functions to hold the coupling device in engagement withthe tubular members during coupling.

[0012] A general object of the present invention is to provide acoupling device that, when in the contracted condition can be easilyinserted into pipe ends, and, when in an expanded condition provides atight seal between adjacent pipes.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to provide ease ofassembly and disassembly.

[0014] Still another object of the present invention is to provide acoupling device that can be reused in its entirety.

[0015] Still a further object of the present invention is to provide acoupling device that is economical to manufacture and labor efficient touse.

[0016] Still another further object of the present invention is toprovide a coupling device with one pivoting threaded member to effectexpansion.

[0017] These and other objects, features and advantages of the presentinvention will become readily apparent to those having ordinary skill inthe art upon a reading of the following detailed description in view ofthe appended claims and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] The nature and mode of operation of the present invention willnow be more fully described in the following detailed description inview of the accompanying drawings wherein:

[0019]FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating the difficultyencountered in coupling tubular members using prior art devices;

[0020]FIG. 2A is an enlarged elevational end view of a tubular memberconnected by screws using a star pattern to a prior art cylindricalcoupling joint taken generally along line 2A-2A in FIG. 1;

[0021]FIG. 2B is an elevational end view illustrating the prior artorder of drilling screws;

[0022]FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the present invention;

[0023]FIG. 3A is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of thepresent invention;

[0024]FIG. 4 is a fragmentary perspective view showing the first sheetend of the sheet member of the present invention;

[0025]FIG. 4A is a cross section of FIG. 4 showing one embodiment of theoverlap gasket sealing cover of the present invention;

[0026]FIG. 4B is a side view of the overlap gasket sealing coverextending along an outer surface of the present invention

[0027]FIG. 5 is an end view of the present invention;

[0028]FIG. 6 is a top view of a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention shown in FIG. 3 that further illustrates the position of thefirst clip and the second clip;

[0029]FIGS. 7A and 7B are enlarged cross-sectional views of a preferredembodiment of the present invention taken generally along line 7-7 inFIG. 5;

[0030]FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the coupling device of the presentinvention being brought into position inside of a first tubular member;

[0031]FIG. 9 illustrates the coupling device positioned inside the firsttubular member and arranged so that the first clip and the second clipare situated on the outside surface of the first tubular member;

[0032]FIG. 10 is a fragmentary top view of the tubular members coupledwith the present invention;

[0033]FIG. 11 is an end view of the present invention shown prior toexpansion, which view is taken generally along line 11-11 in FIG. 9;

[0034]FIG. 12 is an enlarged side view of the expansion assembly of thepresent invention depicting movement of the male threaded member about apivot point;

[0035]FIG. 12A is an enlarged view of an alternate embodiment of theexpansion assembly of the present invention depicting a slidably movingabutment member and a slidably moving female member

[0036]FIG. 13 is an enlarged elevated fragmentary side view of theexpansion assembly of the present invention, with a portion of theabutment member cut away, shown prior to expansion;

[0037]FIG. 14 is an enlarged elevated fragmentary side view of theexpansion assembly of the present invention taken after expansion;

[0038]FIG. 15 is an elevated end view of the present invention takenafter expansion;

[0039]FIG. 16 is a fragmentary side view of the present invention, witha portion of the tubular members cut away, shown as the device is inposition coupling a pair of tubular members;

[0040]FIG. 17 is an enlarged view of the coupling and tubular membershown in section A of FIG. 16, illustrating the furled edge of secondsheet edge;

[0041]FIG. 18 is a fragmentary top view of a pivot clip situated on theoutside surface of a tubular member;

[0042]FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the pivot clip takengenerally along line 18-18 in FIG. 18;

[0043]FIG. 20 is a fragmentary top view of a flip-type clip situated onthe outside surface of a tubular member; and,

[0044]FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the flip-type clip takengenerally along line 20-20 in FIG. 20.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0045] At the outset, it should be clearly understood that likereference numerals are intended to identify the same structuralelements, portions, or surfaces consistently throughout the severaldrawing figures, as may be further described or explained by the entirewritten specification of which this detailed description is an integralpart. The drawings are intended to be read together with thespecification and are to be construed as a portion of the entire“written description” of this invention as required by 35 U.S.C. §112.

[0046] The present invention generally comprises a coupling device forcoupling tubular members. In the description that follows, the phrase“tubular members” in intended to include pipes, ducts, tubes, conduit,and any other generally cylindrically shaped or oval-shaped articles ofmanufacture. A typical joint for metal ducting is formed using two pipeswith opposing end of each pipe laid end-to-end, pushed together with acylindrical coupling joint and then secured by the use of screws. Oneproblem discovered therein is the inability for one person to do the jobwithout moving the ladder from one side of the tubular member to theother. In addition, internal expansion devices have been used to coupletubular members in the past. The problem with prior art expansiondevices is the difficulty encountered in positioning the coupling memberinto the tubular members to be joined, particularly with larger sizedtubular members. Commonly, these couplings of large tubular membersrequire two people to accomplish the joining of the tubular membersefficiently. Still, another problem encountered is that once theinternal expansion-coupling device of the prior art is pushed into thetubular member to be joined, it is difficult to hold it in the properposition prior to expansion. The tubular member coupling device of thepresent invention uniquely solves this problem in a way not contemplatedby the prior art. The current invention allows a single person toconnect tubular members efficiently from one side of the pipe, requiringtightening of only one threaded member.

[0047] Adverting now to the drawings, FIG. 1 is a perspective viewillustrating the difficulty encountered in coupling tubular membersusing prior art devices. As depicted in FIG. 1, once cylindricalcoupling joint 11 is placed over the open end of tubular member 6 andsecured by driving screws into one side of cylindrical coupling joint11, ladder 37 is moved in the direction of arrow 33 to accomplish thetask of driving screws into the other side of cylindrical coupling joint11 and tubular member 6. As this drawing illustrates, a single personmust move from place to place on either side of the tubing to accomplishthe coupling. The drawing illustrates a person first ascending ladder 37on one side of the tubing, and then repositioning the ladder andascending again from the other side (shown in phantom).

[0048]FIG. 2A is an enlarged elevational end view of tubular member 6taken generally along line 2A-2A in FIG. 1 showing tubular member 6connected to prior art cylindrical coupling joint 11 by screws usingstar pattern 8. FIG. 2A illustrates that, in the prior art method ofcoupling, location screws are commonly driven into cylindrical couplingjoint 11 about the perimeter of the coupling to join tubular members. Inthe coupling process of the prior art, first tubular member 6 and secondtubular member 7 (not shown) can bend and thus not provide a clean seal.To overcome the bending problem, it is common in the prior art toestablish screw connections in an alternating order (similar to theorder in which one might tighten the lug nuts of automobile wheel).FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate by consecutively numbered arrows 1-5 thelabor-intensive prior art order of tightening screws into the tubularmembers. It should be apparent, then, that the prior art method wouldrequire one person to move ladder 37 back and forth several times toalternatingly tighten the five screws into tubular member 6, and then,the same procedure would have to be repeated for tubular member 7.

[0049]FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the present invention. Couplingdevice 20 comprises sheet member 21 made from any relatively flexiblesheet-like material having a first sheet end 28 and a second sheet end29 where the sheet ends are operatively arranged to overlap one anotherto form sheet member 21 into a substantially cylindrically shapedcoupling. In the preferred embodiment, the sheet is made of flexiblesteel. Also in the preferred embodiment, abutment member 23 is fixedlyattached to sheet member 21 proximate second sheet end 29 and femalemember 24 is pivotably connected proximate first sheet end 28 of sheetmember 21. Sheet member 21 includes first sheet side 31 and opposingparallel second sheet side 32. In a preferred embodiment, sheet member21 is provided with raised bead 25 essentially parallel to the sheetsides 31 and 32 emanating outwardly from outer surface 12 of sheetmember 21 and extending along substantially an entire length of sheetmember 21. Raised bead 25 may be round, rectangular or other shape thatprevents a tubular member to be fitted completely over coupling device20. In a preferred embodiment, raised bead 25 is located generally inthe center of outer surface 12 of coupling device 20. Arranged on eitherside of raised bead 25 and positioned over outer surface 12 of sheetmember 21 are first gasket sealing covering 26 and second gasket sealingcovering 27. First gasket sealing covering 26 is arranged adjacentraised bead 25 and first sheet edge 31 such that it encloses the entirelength of sheet member 21 to include the overlapped first sheet end 28and second sheet end 29. Second gasket sealing covering 27 is arrangedadjacent raised bead 25 and second sheet edge 32 such that it enclosesthe entire length of sheet member 21 to include the overlapped firstsheet end 28 and second sheet end 29.

[0050]FIG. 3A depicts an alternate embodiment in which abutment member23 is fixedly attached to sheet member 21 proximate first sheet end 28and female member 24 is movably connected to sheet member 21 proximatesecond sheet end 29. The term “movably attached” is defined as allowingfemale member 24 to move sufficiently to accommodate the angle at whichmale threaded member 22 contacts abutment member 23.

[0051]FIG. 4 is a fragmentary perspective view showing first sheet end28 of sheet member 21 of the present invention. Female member 24 isfixedly attached proximate first sheet end 28 and centered on raisedbead 25 of sheet member 21. Female member 24 is fixedly attachedhowever, in the preferred embodiment, it should be understood that it ispivotably mounted to accommodate the pivot angle of male threaded member22. Overlap gasket sealing cover 45 is securely mounted in asubstantially transverse direction such that overlap gasket sealingcover is positioned between first sheet end 28 and overlapped secondsheet end 29 (not shown) to form a fluid tight seal between theoverlapped sheet ends 28 and 29. Overlap gasket sealing cover 45 may bemounted using suitable adhesives, rivets or other mounting methods wellknown to those skilled in the art.

[0052]FIG. 4A is cross section view of overlap gasket sealing cover 45in which overlap gasket sealing cover 45 is seen to extend over raisedbead 25 to sides 31 and 32. In a preferred embodiment, corners 45A ofoverlap gasket sealing cover 45 are thicker than the portions of overlapgasket sealing cover 45 that overlay raised bead 25 and outer surfaces26 and 27 at first sheet end 28. The corners with increased thicknessare at the intersection of raised bead 25 and outer surfaces 26 and 27.The preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 4A allows for a tight sealbetween first sheet end 28 and overlapping second sheet end 29 includingthose portions where overlapped raised bead 25 contact each other.Second sheet end 29 is not shown in FIG. 4A.

[0053]FIG. 4B depicts a more preferred embodiment in which the outersurface of that portion of overlap gasket sealing cover 45 that extendsfrom between overlapped first sheet end 28 and second sheet end 29 istapered to effect a secure seal between overlapped first sheet end 28and second sheet end 29. 45B demonstrates a still more preferredembodiment in which the initial section of the outer surface of overlapgasket sealing cover 45 extends in a straight manner proximal to thetapered section.

[0054]FIG. 5 is an end view of the present invention illustrating firstclip 34 and second clip 35 (two heavy duty spring clips) fixedlyattached to the outside surface 12 of coupling device 20. In a preferredembodiment, first clip 34 and second clip 35 are angularly disposed withrespect to one another about a circumference of the substantiallycylindrically shaped coupling. First clip 34 and second clip 35 arearranged to secure the coupling device in position within the open endof tubular member 6. During the installation process, the clips hold thecoupling device securely, thus eliminating the need for a second personto hold the device in place while second tubular member 7 is fitted ontocoupling device 20. The clips also prevent the coupling device frombeing pushed “too far” into first tubular member 6 while second tubularmember 7 is positioned. Although it should be appreciated that the typeand position of the clips are an important part of the invention, itshould be readily apparent that other suitable types of clips could beused to secure the coupling device prior to expansion, (such as a hook,clasp or double ended spring clip) and the clips could be positioned ina plurality of locations along the outside surface of coupling device20.

[0055]FIG. 6 is a top view of a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention shown in FIG. 3 that further illustrates the position of firstclip 34 and second clip 35. In a preferred embodiment, first clip 34 andsecond clip 35 are positioned so that apertures 9 are located abovesecond gasket sealing covering 27. As shown in phantom in FIG. 6, firstsheet end sheet end 28 and second sheet end 29 overlap one another in apreferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0056]FIGS. 7A and 7B are enlarged cross-sectional views of a preferredembodiment of the present invention taken generally along line 7-7 inFIG. 5. First sheet edge 31 and second sheet edge 32 of coupling device20 are turned-up (furled) along the entire circumference of thecoupling. Furled edges 31 and 32 reduce flow resistance of any fluidthat travels through the tubular members that are coupled by couplingdevice 20 of the present invention. Furled edges 31 and 32 also reducethe possibility of any solid material or semi-solid getting “caught” onthe edges, such as could happen in paper processing or other types ofproduct processing systems. Also shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B incross-section are first gasket sealing covering 26 and second gasketsealing covering 27 arranged on outside surface 12 of sheet member 21.It can be seen that bead 25 can have different configurations that allowfor a raised bead that extends along most or all of the length ofcoupling device 20. In a preferred embodiment, first gasket sealingcovering 26 and second gasket sealing covering 27 are placed aroundsheet member 21 to hold coupling device 20 in the overlapped positionbefore and during a coupling operation.

[0057] FIGS. 8-15 best illustrate how to use the present invention. Inthese drawing figures, coupling device 20 is shown in operation couplingtubular members 6 and 7, respectively. In a first step, illustrated inFIG. 8, coupling device 20 is shown being brought into position insideof first tubular member 6. One person working alone, without moving aladder, can easily and efficiently position, align and move couplingdevice 20 in the direction of arrow 36 into mating engagement with firsttubular member 6.

[0058]FIG. 9 illustrates coupling device 20 positioned inside firsttubular member 6 and arranged so that first clip 34 and second clip 35are situated on the outside surface tubular member 6. In this position,the first clip 34 and second clip 35 are functioning to hold couplingdevice 20 securely in position with respect to tubular member 6. Oncecoupling device 20 is positioned inside first tubular member 6, secondtubular member 7 is moved in the direction of arrow 37 and the open endof second tubular member 7 is positioned about the circumference ofcoupling device 20. Although in the preferred embodiment, there is noneed for directly fastening the coupling device to the tubular members,screws or other insertion-type fasteners can be used in conjunction withthe present invention. For example, one or more screws, rivets or otherfasteners may be inserted through tubular members 6 and 7 oppositeexpansion assembly 30 and in other positions around the circumference oftubular members 6 and 7. In FIG. 9, arrows 39 and 40 illustrate thedirection screws are driven through apertures 9 of the first and secondclips to additionally secure device 20 to tubular member 6. In the priorart, the use of screws is a cause of air leaks. However, in the presentinvention a seal is provided by gasket sealing covers 26 and 27, and airleaks are avoided because the apertures of first clip 34 and second clip35 are situated over second gasket sealing covering 27. In a preferredembodiment, the gasket sealing coverings 26 and 27 are formed of anelastomeric material (rubber strips, or strips of another flexible,elastomeric product) and are positioned over outer surface 12 of thesheet member arranged adjacent raised bead 25 and enclose the entirelength of the outer perimeter of coupling device 20 when first sheet end28 and second sheet end 29 are overlapped, to include the overlappedfirst sheet end 28 and second sheet end 29. A quality seal is maintainedas screws are driven through the elastomeric product. As described belowand depicted in FIGS. 16 and 17, gasket sealing coverings 26 and 27 areadapted to lie adjacent to and be compressed against the inside walls 6Aand 7A of first tubular member 6 and second tubular member 7,respectively. Both gasket sealing coverings 26 and 27 extend entirelyaround coupling device 20 in the overlapped position to ensure a qualityseal.

[0059]FIG. 10 is a fragmentary top view of tubular members 6 and 7coupled with the present invention. In the preferred embodiment,coupling device 20 has raised bead 25 emanating outwardly from the outersurface and extending along substantially an entire length of sheetmember 21. FIG. 10 illustrates coupled tubular members 6 and 7 alignedadjacent to raised bead 25, expansion assembly 30 attached to round bead25, and first clip 34 and second clip 35 positioned outside the coupledtubular member 6.

[0060]FIG. 11 is an end view of the present invention shown prior toexpansion, which view is taken generally along line 11-11 in FIG. 9.Sheet member 21 is positioned inside the open end of first tubularmember 6 and expansion assembly 30 is positioned outside open end oftubular member 6. Male threaded member 22 is in a pre-expansionposition. This view also shows an internal space 14 between inside wall15 of tubular member 6 and outside surface 12 of the coupling device ofthe present invention prior to expansion.

[0061]FIG. 12 is an enlarged side view of expansion assembly 30 of thepresent invention depicting movement of male threaded member 22 aboutpivot point 10. This expansion assembly accommodates initiation of thecoupling process by providing a means of coupling irrespective of theslight variances in diameter between the tubular members to be coupledand the coupling device itself. More specifically, the pivotingmechanism described below accommodates initial alignment of the couplingdevice during the beginning of the coupling process.

[0062] In a preferred embodiment female member 24 is a threaded channel,nut, bushing or other guide pivotably mounted to raised bead 25 locatedproximate first sheet end 28, (the under-lapped sheet end that forms thecoupling cylinder) and abutment member 23 (a non-threaded nut orreceiving cylinder or chamber) is affixed to raised bead 25 locatedalong the top portion of second sheet end 29 (the overlapped portion ofthe sheet that forms the coupling cylinder). Male threaded member 22,such as a threaded bolt or screw, is arranged to threadably engagefemale member 24 and to abut abutment member 23. The inner diameters ofabutment member 23 and female member 24 are larger than the outerdiameter of male threaded member 22 to allow the abutment member and thefemale member to accept the male threaded member when it is threadedthrough female member 24 and engaged with abutment member 23. In apreferred embodiment, female member 24 is operatively arranged to pivotabout pivot point 10. Male member 22 is operatively arranged to bethreaded through female member 24 and thus pivot in opposing directionsas depicted by arrow 41 in FIG. 12. This pivoting motion permits malethreaded member 22 to engage abutment member 23.

[0063]FIG. 12A depicts a side view of an alternate embodiment ofabutment member 23. Abutment member 23 mounted on raised bead 25 definesholes 23A located n opposite sides of abutment member 23. Abutment unit23B movably extends through holes 23A in a transverse direction relativeto raised bead 25. In a preferred embodiment, abutment unit 23Bcomprises abutment cavity 23C. Preferably, the width, or inner diameter,of abutment cavity 23C is slightly wider in width than threaded malemember 22. Threaded male member 22 extends into and abuts abutmentcavity 23C.

[0064]FIG. 12A also depicts an alternate embodiment of female member 24.Similar to abutment 23, female member 24 mounted on raised bead 25defines holes 24A located on opposite sides of female member 24.Engagement unit 24B movably extends through holes 24A in a transversedirection relative to raised bead 25. Threaded orifice 24C extendsthrough engagement unit 24B. Preferably, the inner diameter of orifice24C is slightly wider than threaded male member 22 to allow orifice 24Cto accept threaded male member 22 when it is threaded through orifice24C to extend from female member 24 to abutment cavity 223C in abutmentmember 23. It will be recognized by those skilled in the art that themovement of abutment unit 23B and engagement unit 24B through holes 23Aand orifices 24A, respectively, permits male threaded member 22 toapproach and engage abutment cavity 23C in abutment member 23 adifferent angles from female member 24. It will also be recognized thatdifferent embodiments of abutment members 23 and female members 24 maybe utilized to permit joining of abutment members 23 and female members24 when they are positioned at different angles.

[0065]FIG. 13 is an enlarged elevated fragmentary side view of expansionassembly 30 of the present invention, with a portion of abutment member23 cut away, shown prior to expansion. Male threaded member 22 isrotated in a first (clockwise) direction causing it to move in thedirection shown by arrow 42 and thus engaging abutment member 23. Thiscut away view of abutment member 23 shows how male threaded member 22enters and abuts against abutment member 23. It should be appreciatedthat abutment member 23 and female member 24 can comprise any structuresuitably configured and constructed to thus engage the threaded member(such as a threaded nut pivotably attached as the abutment member and anon-threaded member fixedly attached in place of female member 24, ordifferent combinations of the same, for example).

[0066]FIG. 14 is an enlarged elevated fragmentary side view of expansionassembly 30 of the present invention taken after expansion. In thepreferred embodiment of the present invention, male threaded member 22is screwed through female member 24 to abut abutment member 23 (using asocket wrench, hex-head nut driver, or a cordless drill, for example)and the overlapping first sheet end 28 and second sheet end 29 of thecoupling device are forced to move in opposite directions, that is, theedges of the overlapping first sheet end 28 and second sheet end 29 movetoward each other, thus forcing the coupling device to expand, so thatthe diameter of the cylinder can be increased or decreased by decreasingor increasing the amount of overlap of the first sheet end 28 and secondend 29. FIG. 14 shows male threaded member 22 fully threaded in femalemember 24 in the direction of arrow 43. As the male threaded memberpushes abutment member 23 in the direction of arrow 44 the couplingdevice expands (to a greater diameter) by moving second sheet end 29 indirection of arrow 44.

[0067]FIG. 15 is an end view of the present invention shown afterexpansion. Second sheet end 29 is urged toward first sheet end 28 byfully extended male threaded member 22 butting against abutment member23, thereby increasing the diameter of the coupling device. In apreferred embodiment, when the present invention is in the expandedcondition, the exterior gasket sealing covers 26 and 27 are pressedagainst the inside walls of the tubular members as shown in FIG. 15.

[0068]FIG. 16 is a fragmentary side view of the present invention, witha portion of the tubular members cut away, shown as the device is inposition coupling a pair of tubular members 6 and 7, respectively.Coupling device 20 is illustrated in the expanded condition and theexternal edges of the coupling device are pressed firmly against theinside walls 6A and 7A of the tubular members 6 and 7, respectively.

[0069]FIG. 17 is an enlarged view of the coupling and tubular membershown in section A of FIG. 16, illustrating the furled edge of secondsheet edge 32. The furled edges reduce flow resistance of any fluid thattravels through the pipes that are coupled by the coupling devices ofthe present invention. The furled edges also reduce the possibility ofany solid material getting “caught” on the edges, such as could happenin paper processing.

[0070]FIGS. 18 and 19 demonstrate pivot type clip 46 positioned to holdtubular member 6 in place during a coupling operation. The position ofpivot type clip 46 before use is shown in phantom. FIG. 19 shows across-section view of pivot type clip 46 positioned to hold tubularmember 6 in place. Also shown is first gasket sealing cover 26 locatedbetween tubular member 6 and contacting outer surface 12 to form a fluidtight seal. In addition, FIG. 19 depicts furled edge 31 in contact withtubular member 6.

[0071]FIG. 20 demonstrates flip type clip 47 positioned to hold tubularmember 6 in place during a coupling operation. FIG. 21 shows across-section view of flip type clip 47 positioned to hold tubularmember 6 in place. Also shown is first gasket sealing cover 26 locatedbetween tubular member 6 and contacting outer surface 12 to form a fluidtight seal. In addition, FIG. 21 depicts furled edge 31 in contact withtubular member 6.

[0072] As will be appreciated, the present invention provides a soundand effective and easy to implement coupling system. The inventionovercomes some of the deficiencies in the prior art by allowing oneperson to efficiently couple tubular members. It will thus be seen thatthe objects set forth above, among those made apparent from thepreceding description, are efficiently attained and, since certainchanges may be made in the above construction without departing from thespirit and scope of the invention, it is intended that all mattercontained in the above description or shown in the accompanyingdrawings, shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limitingsense. It is also to be understood that the following claims areintended to cover all the generic and specific features of the inventionherein described, and all statements of the scope of the invention that,as a matter of language, might be said to fall therebetween.

What is claimed is:
 1. A device for coupling tubular members comprising:a sheet member having a first end and a second end where said first endand said second end are operatively arranged to overlap one another toform a substantially cylindrically shaped coupling; an abutment membermounted to said sheet member proximate said second end thereof; a malethreaded member; a movable female member mounted proximate said firstend of said sheet, where said female member is arranged to threadablyengage said threaded male member, and said male member is operativelyarranged to abut said abutment member, wherein said male threaded memberis operatively arranged to rotate in a first direction to abut saidabutment member and expand said substantially cylindrically shapedcoupling, and; at least one clip fixedly attached to an outer surface ofsaid substantially cylindrically shaped coupling, wherein said clipfunctions to hold said device in engagement with said tubular membersduring coupling.
 2. The device for coupling tubular members recited inclaim 1 wherein said female member is pivotable mounted and arranged forpivoting rotation around a pivot point.
 3. The device for couplingtubular members recited in claim 1 wherein said female member isslidably mounted.
 4. The device for coupling tubular members recited inclaim 1 wherein said at least one clip comprises a first clip and asecond clip angularly disposed with respect to one another about acircumference of said substantially cylindrically shaped coupling. 5.The device for coupling tubular members recited in claim 1 wherein saidsheet member further comprises a first furled edge and a second furlededge.
 6. The device for coupling tubular members recited in claim 1wherein said sheet member comprises a raised bead emanating outwardlyfrom said outer surface and extending along substantially an entirelength of said sheet member.
 7. The device for coupling tubular membersrecited in claim 6 wherein said raised bead is round.
 8. The device forcoupling tubular members recited in claim 6 wherein said raised bead isrectangular.
 9. The device for coupling tubular members recited in claim5 further comprising at least one gasket sealing covering positionedover said outer surface of said sheet member arranged adjacent saidraised bead and extending along substantially said entire length of saidsheet member.
 10. The device for coupling tubular members recited inclaim 9 wherein said at least one gasket sealing covering comprises afirst gasket sealing covering arranged adjacent said raised bead andcovering a first portion of said substantially entire length of saidsheet member and a second gasket sealing covering arranged adjacent saidraise bead and covering a second portion of said substantially entirelength of said sheet member.
 11. The device for coupling tubular membersrecited in claim 1 further comprising a gasket seal mounted to saidouter surface of said sheet member in a substantially transverseconfiguration, wherein said gasket seal is positioned between said firstend of said sheet member and said second end of said sheet member whensaid first end and said second end are operatively arranged to overlapone another to form a substantially cylindrically shaped coupling. 12.The device for coupling tubular members recited in claim 11 wherein saidgasket seal mounted to said outer surface in a transverse configurationfurther comprises increased thickness at least one intersection of saidraise bead and said outer surface.
 13. The device for coupling tubularmembers recited in claim 12 wherein said gasket seal mounted to saidouter surface in a transverse configuration extends out from betweensaid overlapped first sheet end and said second sheet end.
 14. Thedevice for coupling tubular members recited in claim 13 wherein an outersurface of a portion of said gasket seal mounted to said outer surfacein a transverse configuration is tapered.
 15. The device for couplingtubular members recited in claim 1 wherein said at least one clip is aspring clip.
 16. The device for coupling tubular members recited inclaim 1 wherein said at least one clip is a pivot clip.
 17. The devicefor coupling tubular members recited in claim 1 wherein said at leastone clip is a flip-type clip.
 18. The device for coupling tubularmembers recited in claim 1 further comprising at least oneinsertion-type fastener.
 19. The device for coupling tubular membersrecited in claim 18 wherein said insertion-type fastener is a screw. 20.The device for coupling tubular members recited in claim 18 wherein saidinsertion-type fastener is a rivet.
 21. A device for coupling tubularmembers comprising: a sheet member having a first end and a second endwhere said first end and said second end are operatively arranged tooverlap one another to form a substantially cylindrically shapedcoupling; an abutment member mounted to said sheet member proximate saidfirst end thereof; a male threaded member; a movable female membermounted proximate said second end of said sheet, where said femalemember is arranged to threadably engage said threaded male member, andsaid male member is operatively arranged to abut said abutment member,wherein said male threaded member is operatively arranged to rotate in afirst direction to abut said abutment member and expand saidsubstantially cylindrically shaped coupling, and; at least one clipfixedly attached to an outer surface of said substantially cylindricallyshaped coupling, wherein said clip functions to hold said device inengagement with said tubular members during coupling.
 22. The device forcoupling tubular members recited in claim 21 wherein said female memberis pivotable mounted and arranged for pivoting rotation around a pivotpoint.
 23. The device for coupling tubular members recited in claim 21wherein said female member is slidably mounted.
 24. The device forcoupling tubular members recited in claim 21 wherein said at least oneclip comprises a first clip and a second clip angularly disposed withrespect to one another about a circumference of said substantiallycylindrically shaped coupling.
 25. The device for coupling tubularmembers recited in claim 21 wherein said sheet member further comprisesa first furled edge and a second furled edge.
 26. The device forcoupling tubular members recited in claim 21 wherein said sheet membercomprises a raised bead emanating outwardly from said outer surface andextending along substantially an entire length of said sheet member. 27.The device for coupling tubular members recited in claim 26 wherein saidraised bead is round.
 28. The device for coupling tubular membersrecited in claim 26 wherein said raised bead is rectangular.
 29. Thedevice for coupling tubular members recited in claim 25 furthercomprising at least one gasket sealing covering positioned over saidouter surface of said sheet member arranged adjacent said raised beadand extending along substantially said entire length of said sheetmember.
 30. The device for coupling tubular members recited in claim 29wherein said at least one gasket sealing covering comprises a firstgasket sealing covering arranged adjacent said raised bead and coveringa first portion of said substantially entire length of said sheet memberand a second gasket sealing covering arranged adjacent said raise beadand covering a second portion of said substantially entire length ofsaid sheet member.
 31. The device for coupling tubular members recitedin claim 21 further comprising a gasket seal mounted to said outersurface of said sheet member in a substantially transverseconfiguration, wherein said gasket seal is positioned between said firstend of said sheet member and said second end of said sheet member whensaid first end and said second end are operatively arranged to overlapone another to form a substantially cylindrically shaped coupling. 32.The device for coupling tubular members recited in claim 31 wherein saidgasket seal mounted to said outer surface in a transverse configurationfurther comprises increased thickness at least one intersection of saidraise bead and said outer surface.
 33. The device for coupling tubularmembers recited in claim 31 wherein said gasket seal mounted to saidouter surface in a transverse configuration extends out from betweensaid overlapped first sheet end and said second sheet end.
 34. Thedevice for coupling tubular members recited in claim 33 wherein an outersurface of a portion of said gasket seal mounted to said outer surfacein a transverse configuration is tapered.
 35. The device for couplingtubular members recited in claim 21 wherein said at least one clip is aspring clip.
 36. The device for coupling tubular members recited inclaim 21 wherein said at least one clip is a pivot clip.
 37. The devicefor coupling tubular members recited in claim 21 wherein said at leastone clip is a flip-type clip.
 38. The device for coupling tubularmembers recited in claim 21 further comprising at least oneinsertion-type fastener.
 39. The device for coupling tubular membersrecited in claim 38 wherein said insertion-type fastener is a screw. 40.The device for coupling tubular members recited in claim 38 wherein saidinsertion-type fastener is a rivet.